It’s a wonderful experience to go out on the open water in a kayak. However, fast-moving waves and changing weather require you to consider your safety and comfort in open water. The right gear protects your body from cold wind, blistering sun, and sudden water flips. This article will review seven protective items for your kayak paddling gear.
1. High Visibility Life Jackets and PFDs
The latest paddling jackets with deep arm cutouts are designed for free motion so you can swing your arms around without getting rubbed. They keep your chest warm and keep you afloat in case your boat turns over in deep water.
Choose neon yellow or orange so rescue boats can see you from afar. Look for life jackets that have small front zip pockets for your safety whistle, car keys, and emergency snacks. The side straps are adjustable, so the vest is tight and doesn’t hang down to your chin.
2. Thermal Neoprene Paddling Long Johns
While paddling, long johns keep your legs and core warm and your arms free. The sleeveless design keeps your shoulders from getting tired or restricted on long morning trips across the lake. A thick layer of neoprene holds a thin layer of water that heats your skin quickly.
Reinforced knee pads protect your legs from scratches when entering and exiting your kayak on rocky shores. This easy-to-dress, flexible fabric stays comfortable in tight cockpits for hours without cramping.
3. Lightweight Sun Protective Rash Vests
A long-sleeve rash vest with a high sun protection rating shields your arms and back from dangerous ultraviolet rays without chemicals. This lightweight fabric breathes well, keeping your skin cool and dry while racing against the current.
If you want to be more sophisticated in your summer performance gear, pick up paddling gear that’s high quality. Their sleek fabrics are designed to dry extremely fast once you step out of the water onto the sand. In wearing a rash vest, you don’t have to reapply oily sunscreen on your arms and elbows all the time.
4. Grippy Neoprene Water Boots
Neoprene water boots keep your toes warm in freezing water and provide excellent traction on slick, muddy river banks. The thick rubber soles prevent cuts and let you walk over sharp rocks without getting stuck. They slide easily into narrow kayak footrests without jamming your legs.
The side zipper designs make them quick to slip on and off your feet, even when the fabric is completely wet. They dry quickly and prevent blisters by preventing sand from rubbing against your skin. Keep your feet safe and warm so you can concentrate entirely on enjoying your outdoor water journey.
5. Waterproof Windproof Deck Jackets
A specialised deck jacket can be a powerful shield against cold wind, driving rain and crashing waves out on the ocean. The wrist seals on the coats are tight to keep water from trickling down your arms every time you raise your paddle. The outer fabric allows your clothes to breathe so they won’t feel damp and sticky. It keeps your core body temperature steady during rapid changes in mountain weather.
The hood fits snugly around your head without blocking your front view and protects your ears from chilling ocean breezes. This light layer rolls up tightly and is easy to pack away into your kayak storage hatch when the sun comes out.
6. Padded Paddling Gloves
Padded gloves come with textured palm grips to help you grip your paddle tightly with less effort and muscle strain. They protect your skin from friction while keeping your fingers warm and nimble during chilly morning sessions on the water. This is a lifesaver for long-distance paddlers who train every week.
Many designs have open fingertips that allow you to use smartphone apps or open snack bags without having to remove the gloves. The soft fabric handles salt water well and remains soft after drying out in the laundry room at home.
7. Secure Waterproof Phone Cases
A heavy-duty waterproof case protects your phone from total damage if it falls into the wet cockpit or drops into the lake. These cases have transparent front panels that let you use your touch screen and take photos through the plastic. You can call for quick help in case of an emergency without risking your expensive phone.
The secure neck lanyard keeps your phone attached to your life jacket so it never sinks to the lake bottom. This small device lets you take beautiful sunset pictures on the water without worrying about dropping it.
Be Safe on Your Next Water Adventure
Kayaking can be fun, safe and enjoyable with the right gear. Check your safety kit and the gear you wear before you hit the launch ramp today. High-quality water gear will keep you warm and give you confidence in the water. Start collecting protective gear now so you can have your best water adventure in the future.
Image by senivpetro on Magnific
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